Distributed Lighting Control

ABSTRACT

Apparatuses, methods and systems for controlling a luminaire are disclosed. One embodiment includes a lighting control sub-system. The lighting control sub-system includes a luminaire, a controller coupled to the luminaire, and a sensor coupled to the controller. The sensor generates a sensed input. The lighting control sub-system further includes a communication interface, wherein the communication interface couples the controller to an external device. The controller is operative to control a light output of the luminaire based at least in part on the sensed input, and to communicate at least one of state or sensed information to the external device.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/639,303 filed Dec. 16, 2009, which is hereinincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The described embodiments relate generally to lighting. Moreparticularly, the described embodiments relate to distributed lightingcontrol.

BACKGROUND

Lighting control systems automate the operation of lighting within abuilding or residence based upon, for example, preset time schedulesand/or occupancy and/or daylight sensing. The Lighting systems typicallyemploy occupancy sensors and/or daylight sensors to determine whichlighting devices to activate, deactivate, or adjust the light level of,and when to do so. Occupancy sensors typically sense the presence of oneor more persons within a defined area and generate signals indicative ofthat presence. Daylight sensors typically sense the amount of daylightpresent within a defined area and generate signals indicative of thatamount. Typically, lighting systems receive the sensor signals at acentral lighting controller.

The lighting systems are advantageous because they typically reduceenergy costs by automatically lowering light levels or turning offdevices and appliances when not needed, and they can allow all devicesin the system to be controlled from one location.

Centrally controlled lighting systems can be disadvantageous because alldecision making occurs at the controller. Therefore, if the controllerbecomes inoperative, all lighting devices in the system are no longerunder automated control and some or all may not operate even manually.Similarly, if a connection to or from the controller is severed, thelighting devices served by that connection are no longer under automatedcontrol and also may not operate manually. Partial or system-widefunctional changes, such as an immediate need to override current systemsettings (for example, during afire or other emergency), cannot be madefrom anywhere but the controller. Additionally, centrally-controlledsystems are limited in their ability to be scaled. That is, it is noteasy to add new lighting devices to a centrally-controlled system.

It is desirable to have a method, system and apparatus for providinglighting devices that can be independently controllable, or controlled.

SUMMARY

One embodiment includes a lighting control sub-system. The lightingcontrol sub-system includes a :luminaire, a controller coupled to theluminaire, and a sensor coupled to the controller. The sensor generatesa sensed input. The lighting control sub-system further includes acommunication interface, wherein the communication interface couples thecontroller to an external device. The controller is operative to controla light output of the luminaire based at least in part on the sensedinput, and to communicate at least one of state or sensed information tothe external device.

Another embodiment includes a lighting control system. The lightingcontrol system includes a plurality of sub-systems, wherein eachsub-system includes a luminaire, a controller coupled to the luminaire,and at least one sensor coupled to the controller. The at least onesensor generates a sensed input. Each sub-system further includes acommunication interface, wherein the communication interface couples thecontroller to an external device. Each of the controllers is operativeto control a light output of the luminaire, and communicate at least oneof state or sensed information to at least one of a central controlleror another sub-system.

Another embodiment includes a lighting control system. The lightingcontrol system includes a plurality of sub-systems, wherein two or moresub-systems capable of acting as a group, and wherein each sub-systemcapable of independent action. Each of the sub-systems includes aluminaire, a controller electrically connected to said luminaire, saidcontroller operative to control the light output of said luminaire andto communicate with other sub-systems, and, at least one sensorconnected to said controller.

Another embodiment includes a lighting control system for integrationwith existing luminaires. The lighting control system includes acontroller coupled to a luminaire, a sensor coupled to the controller,the sensor generating a sensed input, and a communication interface,wherein the communication interface couples the controller to anexternal device. Each controller is operative to control a light outputof the luminaire, and communicate at least one of state or sensedinformation to the external device.

Other aspects and advantages of the described embodiments will becomeapparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunctionwith the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example theprinciples of the described embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a lighting control sub-system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a distributed lighting control system that includessub-systems, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows a distributed lighting control system that includessub-systems and a central controller, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 shows a distributed lighting control system that includes alogical group of sub-systems, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows a distributed lighting control system that includes thatincludes a logical group of sub-systems and a central controller,according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart that includes steps of a method of operating alighting control sub-system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7 shows another example of lighting control sub-systems(independently controlled lights) interfaced with a central controller.

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of an independently controllable light

FIG. 9 is a time-line that shows an example of a sequence of timingevents as one of the independently controllable lights is powered on.

FIG. 10 is a time-line that shows an example of a sequence of timingevents while an independently controllable light is operating.

FIG. 11 is a time-line that shows an example of a sequence of eventswhile an independently controllable light is increasing its light level,

FIG. 12 is a flow chart that includes steps of an example a method ofadjustably increasing a light level of a light fixture.

FIG. 13 is a time-line that shows an example of a sequence of eventswhile an independently controllable light is decreasing its light level.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart that includes steps of an example a method ofadjustably decreasing a light level of a light fixture.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart that includes an example of a method ofcontrolling a light fixture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As shown in the drawings, the described embodiments are embodied in anapparatus and method for providing independently controllable lights(lighting sub-systems). At least some embodiments of the independentlycontrollable lights each include a controller, an actuator and sensors.These configurations provide advantages over conventional centrallycontrolled lighting control system that include distributed sensors.

FIG. 1 shows a lighting control sub-system 100, according to anembodiment. The exemplary lighting control sub-system 100 includes asmart sensor system 102 that is interfaced with a high-voltage manager104, which is interfaced with a luminaire 110. The high-voltage manager104 includes a controller (manager CPU) 120 that is coupled to theluminaire 110, and to a smart sensor CPU 135 of the smart sensor system102. As shown, the smart sensor CPU 135 is coupled to a communicationinterface 130, wherein the communication interface 130 couples thecontroller to an external device. The smart sensor system 102additionally includes a sensor 140. As indicated, the sensor can includeone or more of a light sensor 141, a motion sensor 142, and temperaturesensor 143, and camera 144 and/or an air quality sensor 145. It is to beunderstood that this is not an exhaustive list of sensors. That isadditional or alternate sensors can be utilized for lighting and/orenvironmental control of a structure that utilizes the lighting controlsub-system 100. The sensor 140 is coupled to the smart sensor CPU 135,and the sensor 140 generates a sensed input.

According to at least some embodiments, the controllers (manager CPU 120and the smart sensor CPU) are operative to control a light output of theluminaire 110 based at least in part on the sensed input, andcommunicate at least one of state or sensed information to the externaldevice.

For at least some embodiments, the high-voltage manager 104 receives thehigh-power voltage and generates power control for the luminaire 110,and generates a low-voltage supply for the smart sensor system 102. Assuggested, the high-voltage manager 104 and the smart sensor system 102interact to control a light output of the luminaire 110 based at leastin part on the sensed input, and communicate at least one of state orsensed information to the external device. The high-voltage manager 104and the smart sensor system 102 can also receive state or controlinformation from the external device, which can influence the control ofthe light output of the luminaire 110. While the manager CPU 120 of thehigh-voltage manager 104 and the smart sensor CPU 135 of the smartsensor system 102 are shown as separate controllers, it is to beunderstood that for at least some embodiments the two separatecontrollers (CPUs) 120, 135 can be implemented as single controller orCPU.

For at least some embodiments, the communication interface 130 providesa wireless link to external devices (for example, a central controllerand/or other lighting sub-systems).

An embodiment of the high-voltage manager 104 of the lighting controlsub-system 100 further includes an energy meter 122 (also referred to asa power monitoring unit), which receives the electrical power of thelighting control sub-system 100. The energy meter 122 measures andmonitors the power being dissipated by the lighting control sub-system100. For at least some embodiments, the monitoring of the dissipatedpower provides for precise monitoring of the dissipated power.Therefore, if the manager CPU 120 receives a demand response (typically,a request from a power company that is received during periods of highpower demands) from, for example, a power company, the manager CPU 120can determine how well the lighting control sub-system 100 is respondingto the received demand response. Additionally, or alternatively, themanager CPU 120 can provide indications of how much energy (power) isbeing used, or saved,

For the embodiments described, the lighting control system includes aplurality of the lighting control sub-system, such as the lightingcontrol sub-system 100 of FIG. 1. Generally, the purpose of the lightingcontrol system is to control illumination so that the appropriateillumination is provided only when and where it is needed within abuilding or structure in which the lighting system is located. Ideally,the lighting control system operates at the lowest cost over thelifetime of the lighting control system. The costs include both theinstallation (generally referred to as the CAPEX (capita(expenditure))and the ongoing operational cost (generally referred to as the OPEX(operational expenditure)), which includes the energy costs and themaintenance costs (such as bulb replacement, inspection), and operationof a central controller. The actual illumination needs generally changesover the lifetime of the lighting control system due to changingbuilding occupancy levels and usage, and by changes in occupant needs. Abuilding that is expected to see changes in illumination needs, requiresa lighting control system that provides low cost changes to reduce thetotal cost and to extend its lifetime. Additionally, as the technologyof luminaires changes over time, the ideal lighting control systemsupports replacement of the luminaires without the need to replacecomponents of the lighting control system. While lowering the costs, theideal lighting control system should enhance occupant productivity,well-being, and security. Also, the ideal system should gatheroperational status and statistics so that the actual operation can becompared with the desired operation, and the design assumptions (such asoccupancy patterns) can be validated, and the configuration changed, ifneeded, when the design is changed to match the actual use.

At least some embodiments of the lighting control system include aplurality of the lighting control sub-system. Each of the lightingcontrol sub-systems can operate independently, in coordination withother lighting control sub-systems (for example, existing hard-wiredsystems), and/or in coordination with a central controller. As such,each of the lighting control sub-systems can be independently installed,and adapt their operation accordingly.

As previously stated, an embodiment of the lighting control sub-systemincludes a communication interface, a controller (listed in discussionas a single controller, but as previously described, at least someembodiment include multiple controllers, such as, the high-voltagemanager 104 and the smart sensor, CPU 135), a luminaire, a light sensor,and a motion sensor. For an embodiment, the luminaire is a lighting unitconsisting of one or more lamps, socket(s) and parts that hold thelamp(s) in place and protect them, wiring that connects the lamp(s) to apower source, and reflector(s) to help direct and distribute the light.Various embodiments of luminaires include bulb technologies, such asincandescent, florescent, and LED (light emitting diode). Further,various embodiments of the luminaires are controllably turned on and offand further, are controllably dimmable.

For at least some embodiments, the controller makes decisions as toturning on, turning off, and dimming the luminaires. The controller doesthis, for example, either due to command from an external device (suchas, the central controller), or by processing decision rules usinginputs from the sensors, a saved configuration, time of day, passage oftime from past sensor inputs, and/or from state or sensor values fromother sub-systems. Additionally or alternatively, learned behavior caninfluence the decisions.

In its most basic configuration, the controller only controls turning atleast one luminaire on or off (no dimming) using simple rules and onlyinputs from a motion and light sensor and passage of time. For anembodiment, the controller is split into two physical modules as shownin FIG. 1. The first module is called the powerpack (referred to as thehigh-voltage manager 104), and contains the following sub-modules: powertransformer (AC to DC voltage), relay to disrupt power to the luminaire,power meter, one model sends dimming control signal (and other modelpasses a dimming control signal) to the luminaire, and “watch dog”support to restart the other module of the controller if it becomesunresponsive. The second module (referred to as the smart sensor system102) houses the motion, and temperature sensors, a processor, persistentstorage for configuration, and the wireless interface. The processor inthis module executes the rules for controlling the light level of theluminaire.

For an embodiment, the controller is co-located with the luminaire.Also, at least some embodiments of the luminaire have chambers whereinthe controller can be housed, or are designed for an external chamber tobe attached that can house the controller.

For at least some embodiments, the controller intercepts power sourcesgoing to the luminaire and provides on/off controlled power. Anembodiment of the controller also provides a 0 to 10 v control signal tothe luminaire, and if supported by the luminaire, for dimming.

For at least some embodiments, the sensors sense (or measures) somephysical quantity and converts it into a digital value. For anembodiment, the sensors are packaged together with the controller. Morespecifically, for various embodiments of the lighting controlsub-system, multiple sensors of the lighting control sub-system includea motion sensor, alight sensor, and temperature sensors located in thesame physical module, which is connected to the other physical moduleswith a cable. For an embodiment, the sensor(s) are physically locatedbeside the luminaire, and the motion and light sensors are directedtowards the floor of a structure in which the lighting controlsub-system is located. For an embodiment, the sensor(s) are directlyconnected to the controller.

For an embodiment, the controller is further operative to receiveinformation from an external device, wherein the received informationinfluences a current state of the lighting control sub-system, or thereceived information includes parameters that influence a future stateof the lighting control sub-system. For an embodiment, the receivedinformation influences alighting control sub-system profile. For anembodiment, the lighting sub-system profile includes a set of values(parameters) that affect the operation of the controller in determininghow it controls the light output of the luminaire based on current andpast sensor inputs, time of day or passage of time. For at least someembodiments, the parameters are adaptively updated.

For at least some embodiments, the controller is operative to receive aplurality of lighting control sub-system profiles. That is, there can bemore than one lighting control sub-system profile, and the lightingcontrol sub-system profiles can be adaptively updated. Morespecifically, an active profile or present profile of the plurality oflighting control sub-system profiles can be adaptively updated. Further,for at least some embodiments, the external device can add, replace ordelete one or more profiles of the plurality of lighting controlsub-system profiles.

As previously stated, the external device can be a central controller oranother lighting control sub-system. Further, the external device caninclude a logical group controller, or a terminal. For at least someembodiments, a terminal is a device that allows interaction with thelighting control sub-system in a form that can be done by humans in alanguage that is human readable.

An embodiment of a logical group controller provides control over aplurality of lighting control sub-systems, wherein the plurality oflighting control sub-systems are all a member of the logical group. Thesize of a logical group is dynamic. Further, any one of the lightingcontrol sub-systems can be member of any number of logical groups,wherein each logical group can include a different set of members. Foran embodiment, the external device looks like a traditional light wallswitch but with several buttons or controls. The external device is usedto affect all lighting control sub-systems in the logical group to turnthem on or off, and/or to set them to configured light levels that areappropriate for the use of the space in which the logical group oflighting control sub-systems is located. For example, such as viewingoutput from a projector on a screen, or listening to a formalpresentation.

At least some embodiments include a plurality of sensors, wherein thecontroller is operative to control the light output based on acombination of sensed inputs of the plurality of sensors. The sensorscan include, for example, ambient light sensors and occupancy sensors.Additionally, timing and scheduling controls can be provided by clocksand/or timers. At least some embodiments further include the controlleroperative to control the light output based on the combination of one ormore of the sensed inputs and a lighting schedule. For example, during awork time (known occupancy of, for example, an office building) a lightin a work area may be restricted from turning off. However, duringnon-work times, the light can be turned off if no one is present. Ifutilizing a lighting schedule, clearly the lighting control sub-systemincludes and/or has access to a clock and/or a timer.

For at least some embodiments, the controller is operative to receive alighting control configuration. For an embodiment, the lighting controlconfiguration includes the above-described lighting sub-system profile.For an embodiment, the controller receives the lighting controlconfiguration from a system operator. This includes (but is not limitedto), for example, a situation where an operator sets the configurationusing dip switches that are physically located on the sub-system. For anembodiment, the controller receives the lighting control configurationfrom a central controller, thereby allowing a system user to manage thelighting control configuration.

For an embodiment, the controller is operative to collect sensor valuesover time based on at least the sensed input. Again, the controller hasaccess to a clock and/or a timer. For an embodiment, the controller isoperative to communicate the collected sensor values to the externaldevice. For example, a value of occupancy can be determined every Xseconds, saved for the last Y minutes, and then reported to the externaldevice or central controller. For an embodiment, the controller isoperative to identify problems of operation of the lighting controlsub-system based on the collected sensor values, and to report theidentified problems of operation to the external device. For example,the controller can report that the temperature is too high or too low.The controller can report that a light has burned out, or report a lossof coupling with the luminaire. For at least some embodiments, thecontroller is operative to report past operating characteristics of thesub-system. For example, the controller can report light level changes.

For at least some embodiments, the sensor includes a power monitoringunit such as, the energy meter 122) operative to measure power usage ofthe lighting control sub-system. Further, for at least some embodiments,the controller is operative to communicate the measured power usage ofthe sub-system to the external device,

As will be described in detail, for at least some embodiments, thecontroller is operative to communicate with other sub-systems, andidentify logical groups of two or more sub-systems. For at least someembodiments, identifying logical groups comprises at least thecontroller and at least one of the other sub-systems auto-determiningthe logical group. For an embodiment, at least one of the logical groupsincludes a motion sensing group. For an embodiment, at least one of thelogical groups includes an ambient light group. For an embodiment, atleast one of the logical groups includes a logical switch group. For anembodiment, at least one of the logical groups includes a logicaltemperature group.

For an embodiment, the controller is operative to control the lightoutput based on a sensor signal of a sensor of another sub-system of acommon logical group. For an embodiment, sub-systems of a common logicalgroup communicate to each other when a sensor of one of the sub-systemsof the logical group has failed.

For an embodiment, the controller is operative to identify an emergencycondition, and initiate an emergency mode. For a specific embodiment,the controller is operative to confirm the identification of theemergency mode, including the controller initiating communication with anon-emergency device, and confirming the identified emergency conditionif the initiated communication is not successful,

FIG. 2 shows a distributed lighting control system that includes aplurality of sub-systems 100, 101, 102, according to an embodiment. Asshown, each (or at least some of the sub-systems 100, 101, 102 includethe previously described luminaire 110, controller 120, communicationinterface 130, and sensor 140.

FIG. 3 shows a distributed lighting control system that includesplurality of sub-systems 100, 101, 102 and a central controller 310,according to an embodiment. For at least some embodiments, eachsub-system is capable of independent action. Each sub-system 100, 101,102 is further capable of acting responsive to the central controller310. Further each, sub-system 100, 101, 102 includes a luminaire 110, acontroller 120 coupled to the luminaire, at least one sensor 140 coupledto the controller, and a communication interface 130. The at least onesensor 140 generates a sensed input, and the communication interface 130couples the controller 120 to at least one of the central controller 310or another sub-system. For at least some embodiments, the controller isoperative to control a light output of the luminaire 110, andcommunicate at least one of state or sensed information to at least oneof the central controller 310 or another sub-system.

For an embodiment, central controller 310 configures all sub-systems100, 101, 102 (so that they can operate autonomously), gathers andstores periodic reports of status and statistics from all sub-systems100, 101, 102, gathers asynchronous event reports from sub-systems 100,101, 102, replaces the software running in any sub-system 100, 101, 102,and on operator command, can control the light level on any sub-system100, 101, 102. Further, for an embodiment, on operator command, thecentral controller 310 can return a sub-system to run in autonomous modeon operator command. An embodiment of the central controller 310 alsoprovides a management user interface to the lighting control system 100,101, 102 so that operators of the system 100, 101, 102 can performmanagement operations including viewing the status, upgrading thesoftware running on the sub-systems 100, 101, 102, changing theconfiguration of the sub-systems, upgrade software on selectedsub-systems, upgrading software on the central controller 310, backingup configurations and saving status and statistics, etc. An embodimentof the central controller 310 sets configurations and gathers periodicreports of status from all the sub-systems 100, 101, 102.

For an embodiment, the central controller 310 includes an Ethernetinterface that it uses to connect to one or more gateways via an IPnetwork. For an embodiment, the gateways use a wireless communicationinterface to connect to one or more sub-systems 100, 101, 102. At leastsome embodiments of the lighting control system are designed so that thelighting control system is agnostic to the networking type or topologythat is used to provide communications between the central controllerand sub-systems. For an embodiment, the central controller 310 uses theHTTPS protocol, which is used to support secure connection with a Webbrowser that runs on a computer and provides a graphical user interface.For an embodiment, the central controller is powered by a 100 to 240Vpower supply. Embodiments of the central controller can be locatedanywhere there is power, an Ethernet connection, and an environment thatdoesn't exceed the environmental constraints of the hardware.

At least some embodiments include an apparatus and/or method forretrofitting a lighting control sub-system. The retrofit kit allows forupgrading of presently existing minimal intelligent lighting controlsub-systems without having to modify existing power line and powercontrol wiring. The retrofitted lighting control sub-system allows forintelligent control of the light of the lighting control sub-system. Theretrofitted lighting control sub-system can be networked with otherretrofitted lighting control sub-systems allowing for distributedcontrol of multiple lighting control sub-systems. Additionally,embodiments of the retrofitted light include network interfaces foradditional or alternative light control.

For an embodiment, a retrofit controller is interfaced with a dimmingballast of an existing light, which includes breaking an existing powersupply and dimming control connections of the dimming ballast, insertingthe retrofit controller, and connecting the power supply and dimmingconnections of the dimming ballast to the retrofit controller.Additionally, the retrofit controller is connected to at least onesensor by attaching an external electrically conductive line between atleast one external sensor and the retrofit controller. Existing externalelectrical wiring and switches can be left alone and not modified.

For an embodiment, the at least one external sensor is affixed proximateto the light fixture. For example, if the light fixture is attached tothe ceiling of a room, the at least external sensor is affixed to theceiling proximate to the light fixture.

An external electrically conductive line is connected between theretrofit controller and the at least one external sensor. For anembodiment, the external electrically conductive line provides power tothe at least one external sensor from the retrofit controller. For anembodiment, the external electrically conductive line provides controlinformation from the at least one external sensor to the retrofitcontroller.

The at least one external sensor can merely provide sensed signals, orthe at least one external sensor can include a controller, and the atleast one external sensor is wirelessly connected to a network.Additionally, embodiments include the at least one external sensorproviding dimming control information to the retrofit controller basedon at least one of sensed information and control information receivedfrom the network.

For another embodiment, the retrofit controller receives sensedinformation from the at least one sensor, and adaptively controls thedimming ballast based on the sensed information. The sensed informationcan include, for example, sensed light, sensed motion, or sensedtemperature, in which intelligent lighting control decisions can bemade.

If many of retrofitted intelligent light controllers are operating inconjunction, the light controllers can all be interfaced with a centralcontroller. For this embodiment, the retrofit controller can receivecontrol information through the network to manage, reduce or controlpower consumption of the light controller. Alternatively, the lightcontrollers can include decentralized control, and each retrofitcontroller can receive control information from other retrofitcontrollers over the network.

For an embodiment, the central controller is operative to provide asystem management of the lighting control system. For at least someembodiments, the system management provides a user interface, allowing auser to configure operation of one or more of the plurality ofsub-systems.

For at least some embodiments, the central controller is furtheroperative to receive sensed values and sub-system state information forone or more of the plurality of sub-systems. For at least someembodiments, the central controller is further operative to aggregateand display the received sensed values of the one or more of theplurality of sub-systems. For at least some embodiments, the centralcontroller is further operative display summary statistics of thereceived sensed values over variable periods of time. The displaysummary statistics can include roll-ups that includes display statistics(averages over periods of time, such as, minutes, hours, days, week,months and/or years.

For at least some embodiments, the central controller is operative toidentify a failure of emergency sub-systems, and to identify andcommunicate to other sub-systems operation to operate in an emergencymode. For at least some embodiments, the central controller operative toreceive a demand response from an external power company, and adaptivelycommunicate to the plurality of sub-systems to operate in a reducedpower mode.

FIG. 4 shows a distributed lighting control system that includes alogical group 410 of sub-systems, according to an embodiment. That is,for example, the logical group 410 includes lighting control sub-systems100, 101. Once a logical group has been defined, state and senseinformation of lighting control sub-systems of the logical groups can beshare among the member lighting control sub-systems of the group,thereby providing each member with additional intelligence.Additionally, member lighting control sub-systems of the logical groupcan be commonly controlled.

Based on the ability of the lighting control sub-systems to communicatewith each other, an embodiment includes the sub-systems of a logicalgroup providing each other with their sensor readings and providing eachother with their decisions for setting light levels. Therefore, thelighting control sub-systems can coordinate their control of lights. Forexample, a group of the lighting control sub-systems can be set up thatconsists of all fixtures (sub-systems) in a conference room. Therefore,when any of the sub-systems senses motion (due to an occupant enteringthrough any of the doors to the conference room) and the lights are off,the sub-system communicates the turning on the lights due to motion withthe other members in the group so that all of them turn on their light.Also, while motion is detected by any sub-subsystem, this can becommunicated with the members of the group so that the lights are kepton, even by the sub-systems that have not recently detected motion.Another example is lights in a corridor being in a group. When they are,they can communicate their detection of motion and physical location tothe other lights in the group, so they can react in such a way that onlythe nearby lights “in front of” a moving person in a deserted corridorturn on (or brighten up if they are on at a low level). Yet anotherexample is an external device that acts like a sophisticated lightswitch. When a user selects a lighting scene on it, it sends the sceneto all sub-systems that are members of a “switch group”.

For an embodiment, the controller of each lighting sub-system isoperative to communicate with other sub-systems, and identify logicalgroups of two or more sub-systems. For an embodiment, the controller isoperative to control the light output based on a sensor signal of asensor of another sub-system. For an embodiment, identifying logicalgroups includes at least the controller and at least one of the othersub-systems auto-determining the logical group.

Embodiments include various types of logical groups. Exemplary logicgroups include a motion sensing group, an ambient light group, a logicalswitch group, and/or a logical temperature group. It is to be understoodthat this is not an exhaustive list.

For at least some embodiments of a building control system that includethe distributed lighting control system includes a logical group 410 ofsub-systems, the sub-systems are independently operable. That is, eachof the sub-systems can operate completely independently, and thecontroller within each sub-system is operable without receiving anycommands from a central controller. For other embodiments, thesub-systems operate in conjunction with other sub-systems, such as,other sub-systems within a common logical group. For this embodiment,decisions regarding building control can involve a collaborativeinteraction between multiple sub-systems. For other embodiments, one ormore sub-systems are interfaced with a system controller,

For an embodiment, each controller 120, of each lighting controlsub-system 100, 101, 102 independently control an environmental load ora security device. More specifically, the controller controls at leastone of a lighting intensity, an environmental control, or a buildingsecurity control. As will be described, the building control sub-systemscan include lighting (that is, a light in included with the sub-system),and the controller of the sub-system controls the intensity of lightemitted from the light. Alternatively or additionally, the sub-systemcan include environment control, such as, temperature or humidity. Forthis embodiment, the sub-system can be interface or be a part of an HVACsystem. Alternatively or additionally, the sub-system can interface withor be a part of a building security system.

For at least some embodiments, the controller of each sub-system isoperative to independently control the environmental load and/or thesecurity device based on at least one of shared sensor or shared stateinformation received from at least one other of the plurality ofsub-systems within the logical group. For embodiments, the environmentalcontrol includes light, temperature and/or humidity. For embodiments,the shared sensor information includes sense light, motion, temperature,humidity, and other possible sensors. For embodiments, the stateinformation includes, for example, occupancy information, clear statetimer, light sub-system emitted light intensity,

A sub-system may control, for example, an intensity of light emittedfrom the sub-system based at least in part on a sensed parameter fromanother sub-system of the logical group. A sub-system may control heator humidity based on temperature or humidity sensing of othersub-systems within the logical group. A sub-system may make securitydecisions based on parameters sensed by other sub-systems of the logicalgroup.

A factor that greatly adds to the intelligence of the distributedbuilding control sub-systems is the designations of logical groups,wherein sub-systems of a logical group control building parameters basedon sensed input from other building control sub-systems of the logicalgroup.

For an embodiment, the controller within a building control sub-systemis operative to help designate one or more of the plurality ofsub-systems as belonging to the logical group. That is, the sub-systemsoperate in conjunction with other sub-systems, such as, othersub-systems within a common logical group. For this embodiment,decisions regarding building control can involve a collaborativeinteraction between multiple sub-systems. For another embodiment, atleast a sub-plurality of the plurality of sub-systems auto-determinewhich sub-systems are included within the logical group.

For an embodiment, sub-systems auto-designate logical groups based onlocation and/or proximity. That is, for one example, each sub-systemknows their location (for example, x, y and z coordinates) andauto-designates based on a sensed input, and proximity, or a location(for example, x, y and z coordinates) of the sensor that generated thesensed input. Sub-systems which are classified into certain categoriese.g. corridor, emergency) affiliate themselves with other sub-systemsbased on commonality of category and proximity. For example, asub-system in a corridor or emergency path will receive motion sensinginput from another sub-system in the corridor or emergency path and,based on the fact that they are both in the same category and that theyare within a distance threshold (proximity) determines that it is in thesame motion group as the sub-system from which input (sensed) wasreceived.

Stated another way, for an embodiment, auto-determining includes atleast one of the sub-systems receiving a sensed input of a differentsub-system, and the at least one sub-system auto-designating itself intoa logical group that includes the different sub-system based on aproximity of the at least one sub-system to the different sub-system.For a specific embodiment, the at least one sub-system determines itsproximity to the different sub-system based on a three-dimensional x, y,z location of the at least one sub-system relative to athree-dimensional x, y, z location of the different sub-system.

While described in the context of auto-designating groups, it is to beunderstood that location or proximity information can be used bysub-systems to influence operation. That is, for example, a sub-systemmay base its operation based on logical groupings, and additionally,based on the proximity of a sensed input.

For an embodiment, an administrator specifies which of the plurality ofsub-systems belong to the logical group. Generally, the administratorspecification occurs at installation, and may remain static. For anotherembodiment, a manual operator specifies which of the plurality ofsub-systems belong to the logical group. This can include the operatorhaving a manual control (such as a switch or a set of switches) thatallows the manual operator to set and control logical groupings.

An embodiment includes each of the sub-systems of the logical groupadditionally being operative to receive an input from a device, whereinthe sub-system responds to the input if the input includes an identifierassociating the input with the logical group. For this embodiment anexternal controller can interface with particular logical groups basedon the unique identifier associated with the logical group. Associatingthe unique identifiers with logical groups provides for ease of scalingof the number of sub-systems. That is, for example, conventionalcentrally-controlled systems require either more messages or largermessages to control sub-systems, whereas including unique identifierswith logical groups provides for an efficient system in which thetransmitted data doesn't grow or increase as the group grows.Additionally, the system is less reliant on and requires less use of anyone communication channel, and therefore, the likelihood of failure dueto communication channel use is less.

An embodiment includes sub-systems within the logical group restarting aclear-state-timer upon sensing of motion and/or light by a sub-systemwithin the logical group. The clear-state time can be defined by anoccupancy window that estimates, for example, how long a space will beoccupied after sensing an occupant. That is, for example, lights can beturned on within a building or structure for a period of theclear-state-timer, which can be estimated by an occupancy window. Thisembodiment allows members (sub-systems) of a logical group to transitionstates while maintaining synchronization with each other.

An exemplary method or sequence of events of a dear-state-timeroperation includes sub-system in motion group detecting motion. Foroperation of an exemplary set of lighting sub-systems, all sub-systemsin motion group brighten and set an occupancy window of some configuredtime. At the expiration of the occupancy window, the sub-systems shoulddim/turn off. However, if during the occupancy window, some sub-systemsin the motion group subsequently detects motion, all sub-systems in themotion group reset the occupancy window since the area covered by themotion group is still occupied. After the occupancy window expires, allsub-systems dim or turn off.

For an embodiment, sensing of motion and/or light by sub-systems withinthe logical group within a predetermined amount of time after restartinga lighting on-time is ignored. That is, for example, sensing of lightand/or motion is ignored just after lighting of the lightingsub-systems. The period of time in which sensed inputs are ignored canbe defined a dead-time. The dead time can reduce “chatter” betweenlights of a logical group. That is, multiple lights within a logicalgroup can near-simultaneously sense a change in motion and/or lightwhich can cause redundant or excess chatter among the lightingsub-systems of the logical group.

An embodiment includes a sub-system ignores its own sensing of lightand/or motion for a predetermined period of time if the sub-systemreceives an indication of sensing of light and/or motion from anothersub-system of the logical group. This process can be defined as“anti-sensing”. Anti-sensing can be useful, for example, for preventingalight sub-system of an office or a conference room from turning on whensomeone passes by outside the office or conference room.

Various embodiments include different types of logical groups. Exemplarylogical group types include, for example, a motion sensing group(previously mentioned), an ambient light group, a logical temperaturegroup, and a logical switch group. Clearly, additional types of logicalgroups can additionally or alternatively exist. Additionally, asub-system can belong to any number of different logical groups.Logically grouping of sub-systems is useful for synchronizing members oflogical groups, normalizing behavior based on larger samples of data,and/or making better decision based on larger sample of dataAdditionally, a sub-system being able to belong to any number ofdifferent groups is difficult and expensive in centrally controlledsystems. As the membership list of sub-systems in a centrally controlledsystem grows, the data that the controller must manage grows, whichcauses scaling problems.

An exemplary motion sensing group can be utilized, for example, bylighting sub-systems located in a corridor. For an embodiment,sub-systems of a corridor determining they are in a corridor, andauto-designate themselves to be included within a common logical group(that is, the motion sensing group). Further, the motion sensing groupincludes a corridor look-ahead behavior, wherein for the look-aheadbehavior, a plurality of overlapping logical groups of sub-systemsprovide propagation of light along a corridor. It is to be understoodthat there are various embodiments for implementing this motion group.The members of the group can be defined as desired to ensureuser-friendly behavior of lighting produced by the member of the motionsensing group.

This propagation of light can be used in applications where objects aremoving at a high speed (that is, speed greater than a predeterminedthreshold) and the path of the object's motion needs to be illuminated.Additionally, the corridor took-ahead behavior provides for a saferenvironment in sparsely populated hallways during the night sinceindividuals moving through the corridor can see farther ahead. By usingthe corridor took-ahead behavior, the motion sensing group can achievean effective mix of safety and energy efficiency because the appropriatelevel of light is provided without having to illuminate the entirecorridor (as is the case with many traditional lighting controlsystems).

For the ambient light group, an embodiment includes at least a subset ofthe plurality sub-systems auto-designating themselves to be within theambient light group. The auto or self-designation of the light can bemade, for example, by the at least a subset of the plurality of lightdetermining that they receive a change of light near-simultaneously(that is, for example, within a defined time slot).

For an embodiment, if at least one of the sub-systems of the logicalgroup sense a motion and/or light sensing blindness condition, then theat least one sub-system retrieving sensing information from othersub-systems within a common logical group to determine motion and/orambient light level, and the sub-system responds accordingly. That is, asub-system (such as a lighting sub-system) solicits information fromothers in logical group if the lighting sub-system is blind. It is to beunderstood that the same concept can be extended to other sensor aswell, such as, motion sensors or temperature sensors.

For a logical switching group, an embodiment includes the logical groupbeing designated by a group id, and sub-systems that are members of thelogical group having the group id are controlled by a logical switch ora physical switch. For an embodiment, the member sub-systems arecontrolled to provide predetermined scenes.

For example, a conference room might have predetermined scenes which dimthe sub-systems near a projector screen or group viewing monitor. Otherscenes can include optimizing light levels for specific tasks (forexample, task tuning).

An embodiment includes at least one sub-system of the logical groupreceiving a reference or baseline value for at least one of motionand/or light sensor input from another sub-system in the logical group.For example, a lighting sub-system solicits the ambient light level fromanother lighting sub-system in the logical group to establish areference for the minimum light level in a particular building location.Further, the lighting sub-system may receive the input from the othersub-system(s) in the group, and then compare its own measured (sensed)values against the received values to make a decision. For example, thereceived values could be a target (such as a heating or cooling target,and further the sub-system adjusting its temperature until it reachesthe target). For another embodiment, the sub-system uses the receivedvalue to determine some external factor. For example, the value receivedfrom a sub-system located outside can be used to determine outsidetemperature which can be used to aid in adjustment of an insidetemperature. Clearly, these embodiments can be extended beyond justtemperature control.

For the logical temperature group, an embodiment includes a sub-systemreceiving at least one of an occupancy (motion) input and a temperaturesensor input from at least one of the other sub-systems in the logicalgroup to control an environmental load. For other embodiments, this canfurther include the sub-system controlling the environmental load byaveraging the temperatures of all the sub-systems in the logical group.Additionally, or alternatively, embodiments include the sub-systemcontrolling the environmental load, for example, using only thetemperatures of sub-systems in the logical group which are reportingoccupancy. For embodiments, the environment is controlled only in placesthat matter, such as, occupied spaces. The described embodiments allowfrom determination of whether a space is really occupied, are whetherone is merely passing through the spaces.

FIG. 5 shows a distributed lighting control system that includes thatincludes a logical group 510 of sub-systems and a central controller310, according to an embodiment. For an embodiment, the centralcontroller 310 provides information to and controls each of thesub-systems based at least in part on the logical group of the lightingsubsystem.

For at least some embodiments, the central controller 310 is interfacedwith a user interface (UI) 520 that allows a user to control, or receiveinformation from the central controller.

For at least some embodiments, the logical groups (such as logical group510) receive instructions, or provide information to an external device530. As previously described, the external device can be other lightingcontrol system or the central controller, but for at least someembodiments, the external controller 530 can be a switch (that is, alighting control device that looks like, for example, a lighting wallswitch), an array of sensor, or a user controlled handheld device (suchas, a tablet computer or a smart phone). Clearly, the external device530 can be devices other than listed.

For example, if the external device is a switch, the switch can provideoperation instructions to the logical group 510. The instructions can beprovided using a unique identifier, and the logical group that respondsto the unique identifier can respond accordingly.

If the external device 530 includes an array of sensors, informationobtained by any one of the lighting control sub-systems, or logicalgroups of lighting control sub-systems can be used to learn more aboutthe structure the lighting control sub-systems are located in.

If the external device 530 is a handheld device, the handheld device canbe used by a system operator to travel around a structure that includesone or more of the lighting control sub-systems, and trouble shootand/or learn about the operation of the lighting control sub-systems ofthe structure. For an embodiment, one or more of the lighting controlsub-systems include memory. Sensed and/or state information of one ormore of the lighting control sub-systems, or sensed and/or stateinformation of one or more of the logical groups is stored within thememory. A system operator can periodically stop by, access the memory,and obtain the sensed and/or state information.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart that includes steps of a method of operating alighting control sub-system, according to an embodiment. A first step610 includes a sensor of the lighting control sub-system generating asensed input. A second step 620 includes controlling, by a controller ofthe lighting control sub-system, a light output of the luminaire basedat least in part on the sensed input. A third step 630 includescommunicating, by the controller of the lighting control sub-system, atleast one of state or sensed information to the external device.

FIG. 7 shows an example of a plurality of independently controlledlights (embodiments of the previously described lighting controlsub-systems) 721, 722, 723, 724, 725, 726 interfaced with a centralcontroller 720 (for an embodiment, the central controller includes alight and energy management system). As shown, data can be exchangedbetween the central controller 720 and each of the independentlycontrolled lights 721, 722, 723, 724, 725, 726. The information from thecentral controller 720 typically includes a light profile. Additionally,information can be conveyed from the central controller 720 to theindependently controlled lights in, for example, an emergency situation.

As shown, the independently controlled lights can include any number ofsensors. The sensors can include, for example, a light sensor, a motionsensor, a temperature sensor, a camera, and/or an air quality sensor.Information obtained from the sensors can be used directly by theindependently controlled light itself, or at least some of theinformation can be fed back to the central controller 720. The centralcontroller 720 can interface with, for example, a utility server 710which can provide utility information, such as, real-time energy costs,and demand response. For an alternate embodiment, one or more of theindependently controlled lights can communicate directly with theutility server 710 through, for example, a Zigbee© interface and a smartmeter 740

The central controller shown as FIG. 7 is optional. That is, it is to beunderstood that the independently controllable light are capable ofoperating without the central controller

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of an independently controllable light(unified controller, actuator and sensors, which according to at leastone embodiment includes the previously described lighting controlsub-system). The independently controllable light includes a controller820 that independently manages and controls the operation of a lightingunit (luminaire) 840. As previously described, the independentlycontrollable light can include any combination of sensors, such as, alight sensor 831, a motion sensor 832, a temperature sensor 833, acamera 834, and/or an air quality sensor 834. Also, as described, theindependently controllable light can receive profiles from elsewhereover a communications channel.

In FIG. 8 the independently controllable light includes the light unit(luminaire). It is to be understood that the light unit couldalternatively be external to the controller. For this embodiment, thecontroller can include outputs to effect the light level changes. Forexample, the outputs can control relays to turn lights on and off, andcontrol 0-10 V or PWM (pulse width modulation) outputs for dimming. Thecontroller 820 can include a standard chipset that integrates amicroprocessor unit, and interface for communicating different programinstructions, and several ports for communicating with electronicdevices.

Upon being powered up, a power on mode can be initiated in which adefault profile is used. Next, a discovery mode can be initiated inwhich the independently controllable light associates with the centralcontroller, or other neighboring lights. It should be noted, that due toindependent control, installation of the lights can be done one light ata time without interfacing with a central controller. However, ifassociation with a central controller is established, the independentlycontrollable light can start periodically communicating data with thecentral controller. The central controller can then upload a differentprofile than the default profile.

In one example, when motion has not been detected for a specificinterval of time, light produced by the light unit 840 is dimmedgradually or allowed to remain off. When motion is detected, softwareexecuted on the microcontroller 820 compares a sensed level of lightwith a target level of light. When the difference between the sensedlevel and the target level is substantial, the intensity of producedlight can be adaptively changed depending upon a variety of factorsincluding whether the measured light is higher or lower than the targetlevel and the extent of the discrepancy between these levels.Additionally, other factors can be considered such as, sensormeasurements of the recent past, the time of day, and/or other observedpatterns. Additionally, the previously described light profile caninfluence the emitted light adjustments.

An embodiment includes adjusting the light by adjusting a wavelength oflight emitted from the light. Embodiments include sensing the colortemperature of the ambient light with a light sensor and simulatingnatural day light cycle.

Predetermined actions can be taken upon detected failure of sensors ofthe light. For example, the light level of the light can increase if afailure of the light sensor is detected. Occupancy can be assumed upondetection of a failure of the occupancy sensor.

Various methods can be used to adjust the light level of the light. Forexample, if the light is within a sub-system, the light can be adjustedby powering off or powering on one or more lights in the sub-system(such as a fluorescent light sub-system with several bulbs). Analternate embodiment includes the target light intensity beingestablished by a coordinated configuration sequence across many lightsin an area. For an embodiment, according to the light profile the targetlight intensity is established at least in part by a coordinatedconfiguration sequence across many lights in an area. A specificembodiment includes a pair of fluorescent light sub-systems with threebulbs each, in which two of the six bulbs are controlled by one dimmableballast, and four of the six bulbs are controlled by a separate dimmableballast The two-bulb ballast controls one bulb in each sub-system, andthe four-bulb ballast controls two bulbs in each sub-system. Dimming isachieved by the dimmable ballasts by turning off two or four of thelight bulbs while the rest remain on.

Particular configurations of lights include light ballasts that areinefficient below a certain percentage of brightness. To accommodatethese light ballasts adjusting the light intensity below this percentagebrightness includes dimming until off one or more lights graduallysimultaneously with brightening the remaining lights to achieve thedesired light level adjustment.

FIG. 9 is a time-line that shows an example of a sequence of timingevents as an independently controllable light is powered on. As shown,at t0, the independently controllable light is powered on. At a latertime t1, the independently controllable light uses a default profile (asmentioned, the central controller can later upload a different profile).At a time t2, the independently controllable light can perform sensorcalibrations. Thereafter, the independently controllable light can entera steady state mode in which particular sensed events can triggeradjustment of the independently controllable

FIG. 10 is a time-line that shows an example of a sequence of timingevents during operation of an independently controllable light. Asshown, a sensed event triggers the light adjustment which initiates afixed adjustment interval after an initial stabilization time.Embodiments include the initial stabilization time when dimming thelevel of the light, and is potentially set to zero (not included) whenincreasing the level of the light. For this embodiment, a random timedelay is initiated at the same time as the fixed adjustment interval.The random time delay is very useful when more than one of theindependently controllable lights is located proximate to each other.The random time delay ensures that the proximate lights adjust theirlight levels at different times, preventing oscillations in which eachlight is adjusting for the other and also ensures uniform distributionof lighting.

After the random delay time, the light level is controllably adjusted.The adjustments continue until the target level of light has beenreached. This can include any number of fixed adjustment cycles.Thereafter, the changed damping interval is included to damp or filterthe changes in the light level. The damping interval can be skipped ifthe lights are not at an acceptable level and need to be increased.Light levels below a level can create safety issues. Therefore, thelogic errs on the side of safety. Alter the duration of the changedamping interval, a next sensed triggering causes the entire cycle torepeat.

The fixed adjustment interval introduces gradual changes in light levelsand also allows proximate lights to effect gradual changes in a fairfashion. Multiple lights reacting to the same condition (for example,opening a blind and allowing sunlight to reach multiple lights) react atdifferent times (due to the random delay) and have similar chances(Steps) to affect the desired target light change. The gradual changesin light levels do not distract occupants in neighboring areas.

The fixed change damping interval is introduced to prevent occupantswithin, for example, a room being lighted by the lights, from beingirritated by continuous changes in condition that affect the lights. Forexample, on a partially cloudy day as the sun goes behind clouds and thelight intensity sensed by the lights changes frequently, the occupantmay be irritated with continuous brightening and dimming of lights. Inthis example, the logic would keep the lights at the brighter level tokeep productivity high (that is, less irritating).

The initial stabilization time is used to filter transient increases inperceived light levels. This might happen, for example, if a person withwhite clothing is close to the light sensor, or for example, if externalcar headlights are received by the sensor causing an increase in itsperceived light level.

FIG. 11 is a time-line that shows an example of a sequence of eventswhile an independently controllable light is increasing its light level.As shown, the light level of the light is at an initial level at thepoint a triggering event is sensed or detected. The light level is thenadjusted to a target level. The adjustment initially can include a leveladjustment step size (delta 1) that is larger if the actual lightinglevel is below an acceptable level. Once the actual lighting levelexceeds the acceptable level, the level adjustment step size (delta 2)can be deceased. The effect being that the light level changes morerapidly when increasing and the difference between the target and thepresent light level is still large. That is delta 1 is greater thandelta 2. Note that as previously mentioned, the time between levelchanges is the fixed adjustment interval plus the random time delay.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart that includes steps of an example of a method ofadjustably increasing a light level of a light sub-system. A step 1201includes powering on the light. A step 1202 includes detecting occupancyin the vicinity of the light. A step 1205 includes detecting occupancyby polling the motion sensor of the light at a regular interval. A step1203 includes detecting occupancy through an interrupt from a motionsensor of the light, if occupancy is detected then a step 1206 includeschecking if the light level needs to be adjusted. If light level needsadjustment, then a step 1207 includes determining if the light level isat least at an acceptable level. If acceptable, then a step 1209includes selecting a small delta for adjustment to provide a gradualchange. If not at an acceptable level, then a step 1208 includesselecting a larger delta change for adjustment to provide a more rapidchange. A step 1210 includes introducing a random delay time. A step1211 increases the light level by selected delta. A step 1212 includeschecking if the light level change effected is realized. If effective,then a step 1213 includes initiating a sleep period until the next fixedadjustment interval. If not effective, then a step 1214 includesre-evaluating the current light level and starting a new cycle.

FIG. 13 is a time-line that shows an example of a sequence of eventswhile an independently controllable light is decreasing its light level.As shown, the light level of the light is at an initial level at thepoint a triggering event is sensed or detected. The light level is thenadjusted to a target level. The adjustment initially can include a leveladjustment step size (delta 3). Generally, delta 3 is less than delta 1,and therefore, the lighting level increases at a greater rate than itincreases.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart that includes steps of an example of a method ofadjustably decreasing a light level of a light sub-system. A step 1402includes detecting occupancy in the vicinity of the light. A step 1405includes detecting occupancy by polling the motion sensor at a regularinterval. A step 1401 includes detecting occupancy through an interruptfrom a motion sensor. If occupancy is detected then a step 1403 includeschecking if the light level needs to be adjusted. A step 1404 includesresetting the change damping interval. A step 1406 includes checking ifthe light level adjustment falls within the change damping interval. Ifso, then a step 1405 includes initiating a sleep poll interval. If not,then a step 1407 includes selecting a small delta to ensure a gradualchange. A step 1408 includes decreasing the light level by the delta. Astep 1409 includes checking if the light level change effected isrealized. If effective, a step 1410 includes initiating a sleep cycleuntil the next fixed adjustment interval. If not effective, then a step1411 includes re-evaluating the current light level and starting a newcycle.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart that includes an example of a method ofcontrolling a light. A first step 1510 includes detecting a lightadjusting trigger event. A second step 1520 includes selecting a randomdelay time. A third step 1530 includes adjusting the light, wherein thelight adjustment occurs the random delay time after detecting the lightadjusting trigger event.

For an embodiment, detecting a light adjusting trigger event includessensing a light level change greater than a change threshold. That is,for example, sensing a light level different from a target light levelby an amount that is greater than a difference threshold. Additionallyor alternatively, the light adjusting trigger event can include sensinga change in room occupancy state, user input, or a state of emergency.For other embodiments, detecting a light adjusting trigger eventincludes detecting at least one of a change in time of day, a day of aweek, a day of a year, a change in weather. For other embodiments,detecting a light adjusting trigger event includes receiving a demandresponse request or a real-time pricing request from, for example, thecentral controller.

An embodiment includes adjusting the light only once per a fixedadjustment interval. Further, the light is adjusted the random delaytime after the start of the fixed adjustment interval. This can furtherinclude periodically polling throughout the fixed adjustment interval toconfirm that a state change that caused the light adjusting triggerevent persists. If the state change that caused the trigger no longerpersists, then a new light triggering event can be initiated.

As previously described, a light profile can be received that includesat least one light parameter. The at least one lighting parameter caninfluence the change threshold (either a percentage or an absolutevalue), the target light level, and/or the difference threshold (aseither a percentage of an absolute value).Additionally, embodimentsinclude the at least one light parameter influencing the fixedadjustment interval and/or the change damping interval.

Embodiments include factors influencing the light profile. For example,the light profile can be based at least in part on the type of room orarea. The light profile can be adaptively updated based at least in parton at least one of a productivity versus efficiency (PVE) scale, adaylight likelihood assessment, time of day, day of week/holidays,weather, emergency, demand response requests, real-time-pricing events.

An embodiment includes the light parameters being configured such that alight level higher than the target light level is handled differentlythan a light level that is lower than the target light level. Adjustingthe light includes adjusting a light intensity of the light by anincrement step, wherein the incremental step is a fraction of adifference between a present light intensity and a target lightintensity.

For an embodiment, if the target is greater than the present lightintensity, then the light intensity is adjusted at a faster rate if thepresent light intensity is below an acceptable level, and at a slowerrate if the present light intensity is greater than the acceptablelevel. If the target is less than the present light intensity, then thelight intensity is adjusted at a slower rate.

More specific embodiment includes after one incremental adjustment,checking if the measured light level remains such that furtheradjustment is necessary and_(;) if so, adjusting the light a new randomdelay time after the remainder of the fixed adjustment interval andrepeating this process until the measured light level is no longer suchthat further adjustment is necessary.

Although specific embodiments have been described and illustrated, thedescribed embodiments are not to be limited to the specific forms orarrangements of parts so described and illustrated. The embodiments arelimited only by the appended claims.

1. A lighting control sub-system comprising a luminaire; a controllercoupled to the luminaire; a sensor coupled to the controller, the sensorgenerating a sensed input; a communication interface, the communicationinterface coupling the controller to an external device; wherein thecontroller is operative to: control a light output of the luminairebased at least in part on the sensed input; and communicate at least oneof state or sensed information to the external device.
 2. The sub-systemof claim 1, wherein the controller is further operative to receiveinformation from the external device, wherein the received informationinfluences a current state of the lighting control sub-system, or thereceived information includes parameters that influence a future stateof the lighting control sub-system.
 3. The sub-system of claim 1,wherein the controller is further operative to receive information fromthe external device, wherein the received information influences alighting control sub-system profile.
 4. The sub-system of claim 3,wherein the lighting control sub-system profile comprises parameters,wherein the parameters are adaptively updated.
 5. The sub-system ofclaim 3, further comprising the controller operative to receive aplurality of lighting control sub-system profiles.
 6. The sub-system ofclaim 5, wherein an active profile of the plurality of lighting controlsub-system profiles is adaptively updated.
 7. The sub-system of claim 5,further comprising the external device adding, replacing or deleting oneor more profiles of the plurality of lighting control sub-systemprofiles
 8. The sub-system of claim 1, wherein the external devicecomprises a central controller, another lighting control sub-system, alogical group controller, or a terminal.
 9. The sub-system of claim 1,further comprising a plurality of sensors, wherein the controller isoperative to control the light output based on a combination of sensedinputs of the plurality of sensors.
 10. The sub-system of claim 9,further comprising the controller operative to control the light outputbased on the combination of one or more of the sensed inputs and alighting schedule.
 11. The sub-system of claim 1, wherein furthercomprising the controller operative to receive a lighting controlconfiguration.
 12. The sub-system of claim 11, wherein the controllerreceives the lighting control configuration from a system operator. 13.The sub-system of claim 11, wherein the controller receives the lightingcontrol configuration from a central controller, thereby allowing asystem user to manage the lighting control configuration.
 14. Thesub-system of claim 1, further comprising the controller operative tocollect sensor values over time based on at least the sensed input. 15.The sub-system of claim 14, further comprising the controller operativeto communicate the collected sensor values to the external device. 16.The sub-system of claim 14, further comprising the controller operativeto identify problems of operation of the lighting control sub-systembased on the collected sensor values, and to report the identifiedproblems of operation to the external device.
 17. The sub-system ofclaim 1, further comprising the controller operative to report pastoperating characteristics of the sub-system.
 18. The sub-system of claim1, wherein the sensor comprises a power monitoring unit operative tomeasure power usage of the lighting control sub-system.
 19. Thesub-system of claim 18, further comprising the controller operative tocommunicate the measured power usage of the sub-system to the externaldevice.
 20. The sub-system of claim 1, further comprising the controlleroperative to communicate with other sub-systems, and identify logicalgroups of two or more sub-systems.
 21. The sub-system of claim 20,wherein identifying logical groups comprises at least the controller andat least one of the other sub-systems auto-determining the logicalgroup.
 22. The sub-system of claim 20, wherein at least one of thelogical groups includes a motion sensing group.
 23. The sub-system ofclaim 20, wherein at least one of the logical groups includes an ambientlight group.
 24. The sub-system of claim 20, wherein at least one of thelogical groups includes a logical switch group,
 25. The sub-system ofclaim 20, wherein at least one of the logical groups includes a logicaltemperature group.
 26. The sub-system of claim 20, further comprisingthe controller operative to control the light output based on a sensorsignal of a sensor of another sub-system of a common logical group. 27.The sub-system of claim 20, wherein sub-systems of a common logicalgroup communicate to each other when a sensor of one of the sub-systemsof the logical group has failed.
 28. The sub-system of claim 1, furthercomprising the controller operative to identify an emergency condition,and initiate an emergency mode.
 29. The sub-system of claim 28, furthercomprising the controller operative to confirm the identification of theemergency mode, comprising the controller initiating communication witha non-emergency device, and confirming the identified emergencycondition if the initiated communication is not successful.
 30. Alighting control system comprising a plurality of sub-systems, eachsub-system comprising: a luminaire; a controller coupled to theluminaire; at least one sensor coupled to the controller, the at leastone sensor generating a sensed input; a communication interface, thecommunication interface coupling the controller to an external device;wherein the controller is operative to: control a light output of theluminaire; and communicate at least one of state or sensed informationto at least one of a central controller or another sub-system,
 31. Alighting control system comprising: a plurality of sub-systems, two ormore sub-systems capable of acting as a group and each sub-systemcapable of independent action, each sub-system comprising: a luminaire;a controller electrically connected to said luminaire, said controlleroperative to control the light output of said luminaire and tocommunicate with other sub-systems; and, at least one sensor connectedto said controller.
 32. The system of claim 31, further comprising thecontroller operative to communicate with other sub-systems, and identifylogical groups of two or more sub-systems.
 33. The system of claim 32,further comprising the controller operative to control the light outputbased on a sensor signal of a sensor of another sub-system.
 34. Thesystem of claim 32, wherein identifying logical groups comprises atleast the controller and at least one of the other sub-systemsauto-determining the logical group.
 35. The system of claim 32, whereinat least one of the logical groups includes a motion sensing group. 36.The system of claim 32, wherein at least one of the logical groupsincludes an ambient light group.
 37. The system of claim 32, wherein atleast one of the logical groups includes a logical switch group.
 38. Thesystem of claim 32, wherein at least one of the logical groups includesa logical temperature group.
 39. A lighting control system comprising: acentral controller; a plurality of sub-systems, wherein each sub-systemis capable of independent action and each sub-system capable of actingresponsive to said central controller, each sub-system comprising: aluminaire; a controller coupled to the luminaire; at least one sensorcoupled to the controller, the at least one sensor generating a sensedinput; a communication interface, the communication interface couplingthe controller to at least one of the central controller or anothersub-system; wherein the controller is operative to: control a lightoutput of the luminaire; and communicate at least one of state or sensedinformation to at least one of the central controller or anothersub-system.
 40. The lighting control system of claim 39, furthercomprising the central controller operative to provide a systemmanagement of the lighting control system.
 41. The lighting controlsystem of claim 40, wherein the system management provides a userinterface, allowing a user to configure operation of one or more of theplurality of sub-systems.
 42. The lighting control system of claim 39,wherein the central controller is further operative to receive sensedvalues and sub-system state information for one or more of the pluralityof sub-systems.
 43. The lighting control system of claim 42, wherein thewherein the central controller is further operative to aggregate anddisplay the received sensed values of the one or more of the pluralityof sub-systems.
 44. The lighting control system of claim 43, wherein thewherein central controller is further operative display summarystatistics of the received sensed values over variable periods of time.45. The lighting control system of claim 39, further comprising thecentral controller operative to identify a failure of emergencysub-systems, and to identify and communicate to other sub-systemsoperation to operate in an emergency mode.
 46. The lighting controlsystem of claim 39, further comprising the central controller operativeto receive a demand response from an external power company, andadaptively communicate to the plurality of sub-systems to operate in areduced power mode.
 47. A lighting control system comprising a pluralityof sub-systems and a central controller, each sub-system capable ofindependent action, two or more sub-systems capable of acting as agroup, and each sub-system capable of acting responsive to said centralcontroller, each sub-system comprising: a luminaire; a controllercoupled to the luminaire; a sensor coupled to the controller, the sensorgenerating a sensed input; a communication interface, the communicationinterface coupling the controller to an external device; wherein thecontroller is operative to: control a light output of the luminaire; andcommunicate at least one of state or sensed information to the externaldevice.
 48. A lighting control system for integration with existingluminaires comprising a controller coupled to a luminaire; a sensorcoupled to the controller, the sensor generating a sensed input; acommunication interface, the communication interface coupling thecontroller to an external device; wherein the controller is operativeto: control a light output of the luminaire; and communicate at leastone of state or sensed information to the external device.